Cottage Grove vs Minneapolis: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Cottage Grove, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cottage Grove, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,438 | $166,996▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.11 | $80.29▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,554 | $91,373▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,349 | $128,720▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,844 | $177,858▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,928 | $230,997▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 1,470▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Cottage Grove.
The salary gap between Cottage Grove and Minneapolis is $31,558 (23.30%). Minneapolis's median is +21.60% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cottage Grove spans $131,374,Minneapolis spans $139,624. Minneapolis has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Minneapolis ($159,314 effective) pays 15.86% more than Cottage Grove ($137,501 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cottage Grove if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($166,996/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($230,997)
- ✓Larger job market (1,470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $159,314)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Cottage Grove grew 6.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 65.7% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Cottage Grove, MN
$120,547 (2024) → $128,304 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$95,460 (2019) → $158,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cottage Grove, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Cottage Grove or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cottage Grove and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Cottage Grove to Minneapolis as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Cottage Grove vs Minneapolis?
Related Comparisons
Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov